Wool Insulation Washington DC

There's no denying the warmth that a wool sweater or blanket offers. Wool is one of nature's best insulators. The fibers have amazing qualities which is why we use them to make textiles like clothing and wool carpeting . But did you know that it can also be used to insulate your home?

Wool has been used outside of the U.S. for home insulation and it's starting to gain a bit of traction here now. But like any product you buy for your home, there's a cost/benefit characteristic that goes along with it.

On the up side, wool insulation has a number of good attributes. It's insulating value is roughly the same (some might say slightly better) than conventional insulation like fiberglass. The fibers naturally resist crushing which is beneficial since matted insulation loses its insulating qualities.

Wool insulation is also environmentally friendly, particularly if it's sourced locally. It's sustainable (as long as we have sheep on the planet) as well as biodegradable and recyclable. It also doesn't negatively impact indoor air quality, which is possible with fiberglass or foam insulation.

The down side happens to be cost, with wool insulation usually being more expensive than conventional insulation.

In the U.S. there are a few sources, like Oregon Shepherd and Black Mountain USA, LLC (formerly SayrCo, LLC). You can buy wool insulation in both batts and loose fill.

If you're looking for green home choices and you have a need for insulation, you might want to give wool...